As your child starts to grow, they suddenly want to take a hands-on approach to the world around them. They love exploring everything they can find and learning all about how things work. So, as you are guiding them through this time, it helps to have a space where you know you can engage their curiosity while wearing out all of that energy. This is where the Children’s Discovery Museum is going to be your new best friend! As a milestone photographer near Bloomington IL, I adore working with parents to help them find the best local resources. Here is why I always recommend this spot.
About the Children’s Discovery Museum in Normal, IL
101 E Beaufort Street, Normal, Illinois 61761
Since they first opened their doors in 1994, Children’s Discovery Museum has taken a whole-child approach to kids’ development. The project had been in the works for quite a long time before they got their official start. Things really kicked off in 1988 when the original organizers began to meet, strategizing how they could create a space that would help families grow. They took everything into consideration, talking with people across the community to figure out what they wanted to see inside the museum. They opened up inside the former College Hills Mall, and almost immediately, it was a success!
Throughout the course of their history, they have gone by several names and have relocated twice. As the town of Normal grew, so did the museum! They moved into their newest location on Beaufort Street in 2004 and continued to expand. The museum has welcomed over 2,000,000 visitors and has celebrated 30 years in the community. This year, in 2026, they are working to open up yet another second-floor exhibition, giving your family even more ways to explore.
They offer several different membership options that will let your family come visit as much as you’d like. With over three levels to explore, there is always something new waiting for your child!
The Children’s Discovery Museum Experience
Children’s Discovery Museum offers exhibits ideal for kids ages 1-12. Whether your child wants to tap into their imagination or make a brand new work of art, they have just the thing! Here is what you can expect when you swing by.
The First Floor
As you enter the museum, you will walk past the Welcome Desk, where you can get your pass for your visit. From there, your child can tap into their imagination as they go shopping in the miniature grocery store or make some pies over at the Pizza Cafe. They can create their own town over in Plan City, and they can build trains just next door. This level also features a giant indoor, nature-themed play area over in My Great Backyard. Your child will have the time of their lives scaling up trees or hiding in the caves. This area additionally has a water table, and they have an actual garden outside where you can find produce throughout the warmer seasons.
The Second Floor
Once you reach the second floor, the Children’s Discovery Museum adventures will continue! Right at the entrance, you’ll find the Luckey Climber, where your child can climb several stories on the colorful lily pads. There is netting all around the playground so your child can climb with total confidence! If your kiddo loves building, you can head on over to the Imagination Playground, where they can make huge structures using the foam materials. From there, they can work on their own farm at the AgMazing area, where they can climb behind the wheels of a combine and learn all about growing Illinois produce. On this floor, they can also learn about simple machines over at the Ball Machine or discover physics with Imagine Air. If you want to pack a lunch, you’ll have The Landings, where you can eat some grub before going on to the rest of the museum.
The Third Floor
If your child tends to be a little more creative, the third floor will be their spot. This will give them the perfect chance to express themselves however they see fit! They can make their own production over on the stage of the Imagination Theater, or they can paint a masterpiece over at the Paint Wall. There is an art studio and a puppet theater, and there is a music area where your child can learn about math as they make their very own song. This area is accessible both by stairs and through the Luckey Climber. They also feature a nursing nook in case you need to feed your little one while you’re there.
Specialty
Are you looking for the best spot to host your child’s birthday party? Children’s Discovery Museum has just the option! They have a party room on the second floor where you will have a private space to celebrate your little one. If you choose to do this, the museum is going to make sure you have everything you need for a seamless day. You will be paired with a dedicated Birthday Buddy who will guide you through every portion of your celebration. You will have admission for up to 15 guests and will have access to the room for 90 minutes.
Following your party, you and your guests can enjoy admission to the entire museum for the rest of the day. You will be able to bring in your own food and drinks, and you can bring in decorations that you can set up 30 minutes before your party is set to begin. They will even include a special gift for your child!
I Hope You Can Now Plan A Perfect Adventure To The Children’s Discovery Museum in Normal, IL
If you have been looking for the best spot for your curious child, I just know you are going to love the Children’s Discovery Museum in Normal! This amazing center offers tons of ways for your child to learn all about the world.
Do you need more ways to make memories with your child? Then I would love to chat! I am a milestone photographer near Bloomington IL, and I adore working with clients to help them remember all the moments that matter the most. If you would like to learn more about planning your session, I would love to have a conversation so you can see if I’m a match for you! Send me a message today to find out more!
